RAF: Show your appreciation

Published:09:42Thursday 19 July 2018

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As the nation looked to the skies on July 10 to see the RAF’s most historic and newest aircraft fly over Buckingham Palace, it was a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by all RAF personnel during 100 years of service.

The flypast also marked the midway point for the RAF100 Appeal, a major fund-raising drive launched by the RAF and its four main charities.

It brings together the Royal Air Force, RAF Association, RAF Benevolent Fund, RAF Charitable Trust and the RAF Museum to establish a legacy that matches the vision of Viscount Trenchard, who steered the formation of the RAF in 1918.

The appeal encourages the public to get involved in the celebrations, help repay ‘the debt we owe’ and to raise funds for the past, present and future RAF family, inspiring, honouring and supporting all who have given so much.

The centenary year of the RAF provides a unique opportunity to commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who have gone before.

Very few British people can look back at their family history over the past 100 years and find it untouched by the courage, capability and achievements of the men and women who served, and continue to serve, in our Royal Air Force.

The RAF100 Appeal provides an opportunity to show their appreciation and help support RAF charities.

They help people like Battle of Britain veteran Stan Hartill, who serviced the Spitfires night after night during the Second World War. He lives in comfort and dignity thanks to the RAF Benevolent Fund, one of the appeal charities. Mike Goody was injured while on patrol with the RAF Regiment in Afghanistan. His home adaptations have given him back his independence.

As we look towards the next 100 years for the air force it is my wish that the legacy of this milestone will be to ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten, their memories live on to inspire the next generation.

The RAF100 Appeal will support tens of thousands of individuals, young people, serving personnel and veterans.